Buchholz throws with hitters in box, feels 'good'

BOSTON -- Clay Buchholz had his most intensive bullpen session yet during his recovery, as hitters stood in the box during a 60-65 pitch session before Saturday's game against the Yankees.

The right-hander, who has been out since June 9 with a right bursa sac strain, will throw a simulated game next time around, either on the West Coast with the Red Sox or at Triple-A Pawtucket in preparation for a Minor League rehab assignment.

BOSTON -- Clay Buchholz had his most intensive bullpen session yet during his recovery, as hitters stood in the box during a 60-65 pitch session before Saturday's game against the Yankees.

The right-hander, who has been out since June 9 with a right bursa sac strain, will throw a simulated game next time around, either on the West Coast with the Red Sox or at Triple-A Pawtucket in preparation for a Minor League rehab assignment.

"I had hitters in today, so I got more comfortable the more I threw to a hitter," Buchholz said. "Obviously the next step is to get some live swings off of me and see how that goes. I'm willing to do whatever they want me to do and whatever I have to do to get better."

Getting Buchholz back for the stretch run should be a huge boost for the Red Sox, particularly if he resembles the form he had earlier in the season, going 9-0 with a 1.72 ERA in 12 starts.